
"In giving permission to the Israelites to return, Artaxerxes arranged for
the restoration of the members of the priesthood to their ancient rites and
privileges. 'We certify you,' he declared, 'that touching any of the priests
and Levites, singers, porters, Nethinims, or ministers of this house of God, it
shall not be lawful to impose toll, tribute, or custom, upon them' He also
arranged for the appointment of civil officers to govern the people justly, in
accordance with the Jewish code of laws. 'Thou, Ezra, after the wisdom of
thy God, that is in thine hand,' he directed, 'set magistrates and judges, which
may judge all the people that are beyond the river, all such as know the laws
of thy God; and teach ye them that know them not. And whosoever will
not do the law of thy God, and the law of the king, let judgment be executed
speedily upon him, whether it be unto death, or to banishment, or to confisca-
tion of goods, or to imprisonment.' Ezra
7:24-26."—"Prophets and Kings,"
pp. 610, 611.
4.
What response was made to Ezra's appeal to return to Jerusalem?
Who were found to be lacking? What did Ezra command, and with what
result? Ezra 7:7; 8:15-20.
NorE.—"Ezra had expected that a large number would return to Jeru-
salem, but the number who responded to the call was disappointingly small.
Many who had acquired houses and lands had no desire to sacrifice these pos-
sessions. They loved ease and comfort, and were well satisfied to remain. Their
example proved a hindrance to others who otherwise might have chosen to
cast in their lot with those who were advancing by faith.
"As Ezra looked over the company assembled, he was surprised to find
none of the sons of Levi. Where were the members of the tribe that had been
set apart for the sacred service of the temple? To the call, Who is on the
Lord's side? the Levites should have been the first to respond.. . .
"Once more Ezra appealed to the Levites, sending them an urgent invita-
tion to unite with his company. To emphasize the importance of quick action,
he sent with his written plea several of his 'chief men' and 'men of under-
standing.' Ezra 7:28; 8:16.
"While the travelers tarried with Ezra, these trusted messengers hastened
back with the plea, 'Bring unto us ministers for the house of our God' Ezra
8:17. The appeal was heeded; some who had been halting, made final decision
to return. In all, about forty priests and two hundred and twenty Nethinim,—
men upon whom Ezra could rely as wise ministers and good teachers and
helpers,—were brought to the
camp."—"Prophets and Kings,"
pp. 612-615.
Nehemiah Takes Action
5.
What report came to Nehemiah some years later? What did he do?
Neh. 1:1-4.
NOTE.—Nehemiah had not returned with Ezra to Jerusalem in 457. He
was, however, much interested in the progress of .the work. Thirteen years
had gone by since Ezra left, and matters were not,
progressing as they should
in the city. '
"By messengers from Judea, the Hebrew patriot learned that days of trial
had come to Jerusalem, the chosen city. The returned exiles were suffering
affliction and reproach. The temple and portions of the city had been rebuilt;
but the work of restoration was hindered, the temple services were disturbed,
and the people kept in constant alarm, by the fact that the walls of the city
were still largely in ruins.
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